TJ Maxx Causing Women To Run To The Bathroom
TJ Maxx, the beloved discount retailer, is known for offering shoppers a treasure trove of fashion finds, home decor, and more. However, an intriguing phenomenon has caught the attention of observant shoppers: the seemingly irresistible urge to visit the bathroom while browsing the store. You may have heard Joel and I talking about this on our What’s Trending segment when I said “I do have the bathroom urge when I’m at TJ Maxx too!”
Buzzfeed says some women are going to TJ Maxx because the store has a laxative effect on them. The women say the store’s fluorescent lighting causes them to relax and want to go to the bathroom.
TJ Maxx Shoppers react …
‘Do I have to poop or am I just at TJ Maxx?’
‘Hahaha why is this so relatable?! Literally thought I was the only one.’
‘Omg I thought it was just me, this doesn’t happen to me anywhere else except TJ Maxx!’
‘As a TJ Maxx associate without the privilege of an associate bathroom, we are very well aware and you’re not alone.’
‘I go to TJ Maxx after I’ve been constipated for a few days.’
Could there be a connection between this phenomenon and the fluorescent lights that illuminate the aisles of TJ Maxx? Let’s delve deeper into this fascinating mystery.
The Luminescent Effect: Fluorescent lights are commonly used in retail environments due to their energy efficiency and bright, even lighting. While they provide a practical solution for illuminating large spaces, some studies suggest that they may have unintended physiological effects. Research has shown that exposure to certain types of fluorescent lighting can trigger physiological responses, including increased anxiety and a need to visit the bathroom.
The Power of Color Temperature: The color temperature of light can also influence our psychological and physiological states. Fluorescent lights typically emit a cooler, bluish light that is often associated with increased alertness and anxiety. This cool light can disrupt the body’s natural circadian rhythm, potentially leading to imbalances in bodily functions, including the need to use the restroom.
Retail Therapy and Stress: Shopping can be an enjoyable and therapeutic experience for many, providing a temporary escape from the stresses of everyday life. However, the presence of fluorescent lighting could inadvertently amplify this stress, contributing to the need to visit the bathroom. The combination of retail therapy-induced excitement, fluorescent lighting, and increased stress levels may be the perfect recipe for those extra bathroom breaks.
While the connection between fluorescent lights and increased bathroom visits among women at TJ Maxx may seem unusual, there are plausible explanations rooted in the impact of lighting on human physiology and perception. The cool, harsh light emitted by these fixtures, combined with the stresses of shopping, can create a perfect storm that triggers a physiological response. However, it’s important to note that individual experiences may vary, and further research is needed to fully understand this phenomenon.
So, the next time you find yourself irresistibly drawn to TJ Maxx’s well-lit aisles and feel the need for a bathroom break, remember that the lights above may be playing a role in your shopping experience. Perhaps the solution lies in finding a balance between energy-efficient lighting and creating a shopping environment that promotes relaxation and well-being. Until then, happy shopping and bathroom breaks! HAHA- Maryann Morgan
